1983 AIME Problems/Problem 4
Problem
A machine shop cutting tool is in the shape of a notched circle, as shown. The radius of the circle is 50 cm, the length of is 6 cm, and that of
is 2 cm. The angle
is a right angle. Find the square of the distance (in centimeters) from
to the center of the circle.
Solution
Because we are given a right angle, we look for ways to apply the Pythagorean Theorem. Let the foot of the perpendicular from to
be
and let the foot of the perpendicular from
to the line
be
. Let
and
. We're trying to find
.
Applying the Pythagorean Theorem, and
.
Thus, , and
. We solve this system to get
and
, resulting in an answer of
.
See also
1983 AIME (Problems • Answer Key • Resources) | ||
Preceded by Problem 3 |
Followed by Problem 5 | |
1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10 • 11 • 12 • 13 • 14 • 15 | ||
All AIME Problems and Solutions |